Message from the President
November 21, 2002

The Baldrige Award honors American businesses and organizations that have demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to quality and performance improvement. In earning this prestigious award, this year's recipients reflect the values that Malcolm Baldrige embodied during his service to our Nation as the Secretary of Commerce and throughout his life—integrity, excellence, principled leadership, sound judgement, and responsibility.

I commend honorees for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to our society. I particularly applaud the first-ever winner in the healthcare category. This organization has demonstrated the ability to meet market challenges while improving the quality of compassionate health care. As we embrace new opportunities and face new challenges, these organizations are setting an example of quality and excellence that helps strengthen our Nation and points the way to a brighter, more prosperous future for all.